On the Dot

How to Rock Polka Dots, One of This Season's Hottest Trends

Five items that can help you stay au courant.

By Elizabeth Djinis December 8, 2023

Have you been spotting more polka dots on the street than usual? If so, then you're aware of one of this season’s biggest fashion trends. At least so says Vogue, and who are we to argue with the fashion monolith? For the humble style acolytes among us, here’s how to get your polka dot fix locally.

Let's Polka

We’re in Florida, and that means you need a rain jacket. But who among us hasn’t hated to ruin a perfectly stylish outfit with a clunky and utilitarian coat? Those days are over with this polka dot trench coat ($63, at top), created exclusively for Macy’s. The cinched belt and tan color with navy blue polka dots will pair well with any look. Macy’s, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 600, Sarasota, (941) 329-3300, macys.com

Spotty Dotty

A tote bag is a classic accessory, and the design you choose says something about your personality and character. Sporting a New Yorker tote, for example? You’re probably an aspiring intellectual. This Kate Spade New York canvas tote ($28.95), which bears a typical canvas color splashed with golden polka dots, is a great way to choose a tote that doesn’t say anything about you—other than that you’re fashionable. Macy’s, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 600, Sarasota, (941) 329-3300, macys.com

 

That's Clutch

When transitioning from the tennis court to the gala, the dilemma is: How can we make polka dots work for the evening? This Vince Camuto Baklo stone clutch bag ($168) from Dillard’s interprets polka dots a bit differently—think shiny rhinestones. It will match perfectly with your little black dress. Dillard’s, The Mall at University Town Center, 200 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, (941) 527-4878, dillards.com

Vintage Vixen

Why buy something new when you can reuse what was already stylish the first time? Sarasota’s Canned Ham Vintage is always full of unique offerings, and they currently have three polka dot dresses that are a great way to embrace the trend and stand out. We love this 1960s Cover Girl of Miami ruffled cotton dress ($145) for work, this 1980s dark taupe polka dot Lolita Lempicka silk dress ($165) for a dinner out and this 1970s navy blue and white polka dot Loungetimers house dress ($64) for a casual Saturday around town. Remember: When you buy vintage, no one else will have the same outfit. Canned Ham Vintage, 2081 12th St., Sarasota, (941) 313-1280, cannedhamvintage.com

Step to It

We doubt you’ll want to sport head-to-toe polka dot—and frankly, we don’t recommend it. That said, if you want to wear polka dots on your kicks, we’ve got the shoes for you. These Kate Spade sneakers are both functional and fashionable—they’re platform sneakers, so they give you a little lift. In classic black and white and ringing in at $110.60, your wallet won’t regret your decision—and neither will you. Saks Fifth Avenue, The Mall at University Town Center, 120 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, (941) 364-5300, saksfifthavenue.com

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